Jardel, who was released by Sporting Lisbon in the summer, could now face Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Allardyce is thrilled to have him on board.

“Signing a player of Jardel’s calibre and class underlines our determination to progress in the Premier League,” he said.

“He has an excellent track record in European football and I am confident he can resurrect his career here.

“His goals-to-game ratio is second to none anywhere in the world.

“We have found a striker who is going to score on a regular basis.

“I am looking forward to seeing him link up with the rest of the players.”

The Brazilian won the Golden Boot two years ago scoring 42 goals as Sporting secured the title.

Jardel comes with a proven pedigree. Before joining Sporting, he wore the colours of Porto and scored 150 goals in 146 games.

Even though he was born in Brazil he has a Portuguese passport, so a work permit is not required.

Jardel will link up at the Reebok with other big-name players like Jay-Jay Okocha and Youri Djorkaeff.

Allardyce said: “To bring in a striker of Jardel’s quality takes time.

“We have been very patient in trying to recruit the ideal player to bolster our squad.

“It shows our great determination through long and protracted negotiations.”